In a previous post, I spoke of some basic Lenten devotions, and certainly Lent is an important time of preparation. Observing this season devoutly can help us commemorate our Lord's crucifixion and resurrection more deeply. Yet, sometimes I wonder about our observances. In our parishes, we often have special services, more people at Wednesday night studies with simple meals, extra devotional booklets, etc. I don't deny the the devotional and disciplinary value of such observances. Each one of them can be good and useful.
However, sometimes we may overdo them. The Lenten schedule may lead us to exhaustion or to a jaded feeling. And at times, we seem to be seeking merit before God just as much as the medieval church did. Furthermore, we sometimes seem to expend so much time and energy during Lent that we have little left for Easter and the season commemorating the Resuurection. So as we approach the last two weeks of Lent, let us assess our seasonal devotional life. If we have been lazy, then it is a good time to dedicate ourselves to new efforts. And if we have been hyperactive and bordering on works righteousness, let us calmly focus on the meaning- which is what God has done in Christ, both His atoning suffering and death and His gracious offer of new and eternal life.
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